APRIL 2016 Volume 21 Issue 3
The newsletter of the Jaguar Association of Greater St. Louis proudly serving St. Louis Jaguar enthusiasts since 1961
The PRESIDENT’S PERSPECTIVE with John Testrake
Jaguar Association of Greater St. Louis irst, let me congratulate Allan Ellis and Matthew Johnson who “To promote, foster and encourage a spirit of mutual F were selected for the JCNA Karen Miller Award – Top Newsletter interest among enthusiasts of Jaguar automobiles.” for 2015. Allan is attending the JCNA AGM in Scottsdale as our dele- gate and will be present to receive the award. It is truly well de- ♦ Officers ♦ served. Additionally, Matthew and his mother, Carla, won the award for “Best Travel Article.” Finally, Plaza Jaguar have won “Dealership of President the Year” from JCNA. To paraphrase a popular presidential candidate, John Testrake JAGSL is winning so much we are going to get tired of winning. Vice-President Matthew Johnson On the local scene, one of my favorite automotive writers is Stephen Treasurer Bayley. He is a contributing editor and writes a monthly column for Terry Carmack the UK’s Octane Magazine. He says of a recalcitrant older car: Secretary/Membership “Maintaining this car is akin to having several small yachts, a spend- Diana Schlueter 636.477.1763
happy yet distant spouse, and an incorrigible kid who doesn’t under- ♦ Board of Directors ♦ stand that there are some things you just don’t do in boarding school.” I was thinking about that assessment lately after I received Term expires 2016 an email from a man looking for a shop where he could get his ‘87 Tom Loew - Gary Schlueter - Kelly Waite XJ6 serviced. He summers near the Lake of the Ozarks, has a Series Term expires 2017 3 XJ6 and wants someone to look after it for him. He doesn’t want it Allan Ellis - Marsh Riegert - Phil Taxman restored – just oil changes and detailing and that sort of thing. I don’t Term expires 2018 know what to tell him. I think he’ll have to take it to KC or St. Louis Todd Dillon - Jim Hendrix - Lisa Hendrix and still might not find what he wants. Point Tabulator - Terry Carmack I’ve been working on old cars since I was a teenager. I didn’t always Concours Chair - Lisa Hendrix & Ray Unger have a suitable shop and there have been many hours lying on my Chief Mechanic - Gary Schlueter back on a gravel drive or inside some old shed working on some old Chief Judge - Jim Hendrix wreck. Either way, working on my cars feeds my soul. Restoration – Assistant Chief Judge - John Testrake that’s the thing. Show me a machine, once the object of desire, that Historian - Gary Schlueter is all broken down from neglect and time and I want to bring it back. Advertising Manager - Tom Loew It’s a compulsion. I don’t necessarily want to own it, but I do want Webmaster - John Sippel total control. I don’t really even know what to do with it when it’s done. I just like the process. On the web at
But I get it. Everyone’s not like me. Perhaps very few are like me. I make no judgements, but am curiously interested when I meet own- ♦ Editors ♦ ers and enthusiasts of vintage cars who don’t want to do any of the Allan Ellis Matthew Johnson basic maintenance on their car. [email protected] [email protected]
We all get into this hobby for different reasons. Some like the chase Printing and acquisition. Others want a large collection. Still others want noth- Kwik Kopy Printing - Chesterfield, Missouri ing more than a good car and an open road. Some like to modify; some like stock. Some like old cars; some like new. All of these are legitimate ways to enjoy the collector car hobby. We shouldn’t let ADVERTISING POLICY: All submissions to The Jaguar’s Growl must be in a form suitable for reprint; .jpg for anyone make us feel like we’re not doing it right because we would photographs; eps., .tif, .gif, or .png for illustrations. High quality .pdf files may work. rather drive it than work on it, or just leave it in the garage and polish ADVERTISING RATES - 12 months: it, or discuss arcane minutiae about originality. All are ok. All are per- Business Card 1/4 Page 1/2 Page Full Page fectly acceptable. There is plenty of room in this hobby for everyone. $49.00 $111.00 $194.00 $375.00
I’m ok; you’re ok, or something like that. All material for inclusion in The Jaguar’s Growl must be submitted no later than the 15th of the month preceding publication. The Editors reserve the right to edit all material submitted. The Jaguar Association of Greater St. Louis, its officers, directors and the Editors of The Jaguar’s Growl Thanks again, Allan and Matthew, for our award-winning newsletter, expressly disclaim any warranty or endorsement for any of the services or products contained in any advertisement or mentioned in any article. The opinions expressed by contributors are their own and His Humbleness not necessarily those of the Jaguar Association of Greater St. Louis, its officers, directors or the Editors of this publication.
[ On the Cover: LeStable awakens the Taxman Group Racing E-type from its slumber To Join:
O n 5 March 2016, more than fifty mem- bers of the Jaguar Club of Greater St. Louis visited the Hunter Collection, the largest collector car collec- tion in the St. Louis area. The museum, now housed in two adjacent buildings on the north end of the Hunter Engineering campus, holds approximately eighty cars in pristine condition, thanks to its staff of three full-time mechanics and conservators. Not only are there cars, but there are quite a lot of books and memorabilia – automotive, aeronautical, and military. The collection’s cars are often shown at ma- jor concours, both in the US (such as Pebble Beach), and in Europe. There are plans for automobiles from the collection to attend four concours in Europe this year. The emphasis is on classic era American luxury makes, but there are also a multitude of Rolls- Royces and Bentleys from the ‘30s to the ‘70s. We spotted at least one Duesenberg J along with more than one Cadillac V16, Lincoln and Packard V12s, and almost a dozen others from the ‘50s and ‘60s, including Bentley Continental Rs, S1s, and later models – many of them convertibles. After the tour JAGSL members, who were joined by members of the local Ohio State University Alumni club, went to lunch at Patrick's Westport Grill. — TERRY & JEANNE CARMACK and TOM LOEW & CHARLOTTE BUKOWSKI
4 The Jaguar’s Growl April 2016 The Jaguar’s Growl April 2016 5 Sponsored by Ron Henry & Phil Taxman
8:30-10:00 AM
Jaguars on display at the St. Louis Veterans Home 10600 Lewis and Clark Boulevard St. Louis, Missouri 63136
http://mvc.dps.mo.gov/homes/ stlouis.php
10:00-11:00 AM
Travel and visit Columbia Bot- toms Conservatory and the Con- fluence at 801 Strodtman Rd
http://www.greatriverroad.com/ stlouis/columbiabottom.htm
11:00 AM–12:00 PM
Travel and visit Fort Bellefon- taine at 13003 Bellefontaine Rd
http://www.stlouisco.com/ ParksandRecreation/ParkPages/ FortBelleFontaine
12:00-2:00 PM
Travel and eat lunch at Hendel’s Restaurant at 599 St. Denis St. We will be in a private room and have our own servers.
http://www.hendelsrestaurant.com/
RSVP: Ron Henry at 314.750.7100 or mr.kinghenry @yahoo.com
6 The Jaguar’s Growl April 2016 Phot response, but I distinctly remember the keys appearing in my hand. o s :
Let me say that I get, now, what people say about the Jaguar V12, T and perhaps especially when squeezed under the bonnet of a tiny odd
D i
E-type. It is smooth. It is effortless. Its music hitting all the right l l chords. It is pure joy darting down the highway (and you really don’t on a allant as ever, Bob Herold, at the 26th March Coffee, Coffee & Cars even have to be going very fast … and recognizing that I was in nd M a
at Just Jags, repeated to me that hosting the JAGSL gathering is no someone else’s Jaguar, I didn’t). Todd — magnificent vehicle. t t
G hew trouble; I’m not at all sure I concur, as the generously-provided donuts,
J coffee, space, and time do take effort and commitment, and Bob ar- In addition, Jim Atkinson, who made a call in last month’s Growl to ohns
rives first and has to leave last. Regardless, though, Bob Herold and be more active about introducing youth to Jags, put his money on
Gary Schlueter’s CCC&JJLLC is hugely appreciated by all those in at- where is mouth is (his words). Jim brought his son (David) and his tendance. Seriously, gentlemen, thank you. grandson (Jacob) to the event. Jacob is already into Formula 1 and Indy cars. (An eight-year old American interested in Formula 1? There is Usually, the event is quite low key, laid back, uneventful — a handful of hope, dear readers, there is hope.) And Dan Guenther, son of Joe & Jag enthusiasts getting together with no agenda but to chat and look at Sharon, put in an appearance; I found out later that Dan is invested in Jaguars. And that’s exactly how we want it. Most of the time. On occa- Formula 1 (Joe says that “He is surrounded by a bunch of left turners” sion, though, the event carries with it some serious excitement, and of — indeed, Joe, indeed and enough said), and is beginning to make a the unexpected variety. Last year (see the May 2015 Growl, 20.4), career of motorsports. Cliché is not my usual practice, but I say to recall, Phil Taxman brought his ‘64 race-prepared E-type: amazing. This these next generations, do, I implore you, follow your passions. time, Todd Dillon brought his ’71 E-type and after giving us a tour, hap- pened to ask me, “Do you want to drive that car?” I don’t remember my —MATTHEW JOHNSON
Phil tinkers under the bonnet of Allan’s 420, supported by Allan, Gary, and Joe. Jim, Bob, Todd, Allan, Tom, & Ken tour the V12; meanwhile, David & Jacob check out the 420.
It was rather clear that Jim, Gary, Tatyana, Terry, and Courtney were planning something Phil and Joe peruse the sumptuous interior of Phil’s Mk 10. Three generations of Atkinsons with E-type powerhouses. in that corner. We know not what.
THE ROSTER
Jim Atkinson, w/ David and Jacob Atkinson Ray Corry w/ Jerome Stanford Todd Dillon (E-type) Allan Ellis (420) Joe & Sharon Guenther, w/ Dan Guenther Bob Herold Matthew Johnson Courtney Jones & Tatyana Tom Loew (XJS) Ken McDade (XK8) Gary Schlueter (XJR) Gary Sudin Phil Taxman (Mk X) Bob and Matthew with (are those mischievous?) grins. Ray, Jerome, Gary, Allan — smiles, one and all, ear to ear. Terry Trowbridge Ray Unger The Jaguar’s Growl April 2016 7
On 11 March, Simon Gilbert, writing for the JAGSL members may have noticed upon visit- Coventry Telegraph, reported that the Jaguar Apparently, the Editors of the Growl need to ing Hunter Engineering that the collection was Land Rover “£500m Coventry expansion apologize. In the last two issues, we reported rather barren of Jaguars, save for images deck- plans” had garnered governmental support. It that Gary Sudin’s E-type was selected for the ing the walls. Rumor has it that there are a is a “longer term vision which could see the 2016 Welsh Enterprises, Inc. calendar; Gary’s couple of XK 140s that belong to the collec- firm step up its move into the electric vehicle superb, original photograph was spectacularly tion, but they’re apparently MIA. (“Tis so diffi- market.” The Telegraph interviewed Sajid featured, representing the month of June. cult to keep track of so many cars, I’m sure we Javid, the Secretary of State for Business. all totally understand.) Still, the eagle-eyed Gilbert quotes Javid: “I don’t want any compa- In a gross oversight on our part, the Growl edi- John Testrake managed to capture this bit of ny to be moving business abroad. What we’ve tors neglected to mention that John Testrake’s circumstantial evidence. seen from Jaguar Land Rover -- in [the] past E-type also appeared in the calendar. Sort of. five years especially -- is a tripling of the num- We just hadn’t noticed. President Testrake ber of people they employ in the UK, [sic] gently informed us of our inexcusable neglect. they’re exporting almost 80 per cent of what Thus, albeit with skepticism, we searched and they produce. It’s a great success story for searched, combing through the calendar for Britain, I want that to continue and I’m going to seeming hours, for the image to which he re- make sure the government does everything it ferred. As we were about to throw our hands can to help that.” up in sheer frustration, we finally managed to locate it (it’s placed after December and some
Su The (rescheduled) St. Louis Triumph gg
est Owners Association Polar Bear Run
ed 2016 took place on 21 February:
by that’s the “traditional, first, top- … to attend the Central Oklahoma Jaguar
M down drive of the year.” The forty- Association’s Concours d’Elegance, a
r three people and two dogs in thirty
k
M cars met at the Lewis & Clark Boat- ad- to be held on 13-14 May 2016 at the orga house in St. Charles and drove to Culpep- vertisements — keep Renaissance Waterford Oklahoma City Hotel
n per's Grill & Bar for what, I imagine, a
looking and you’ll probably find it). We (Oklahoma City, Oklahoma); we’re offered a are sorry for our unpardonable omission, and special rate of $109/night — there are limited offer John an unfortunately belated, yet of rooms, so if you plan to attend, reserve earlier course whole-hearted, congratulations. We rather than later: (800) 932-2964. shouldn’t have doubted you. : )
FOR SALE: 1997 Jaguar XK8. New brakes all around; newer rack, radiator, front spring, shocks, & aluminum timing chain tensioners. Snow tires on separate rims included.
Photo: Mark Morgan borderline necessary hot meal. JAGSL’s own Phil Taxman represented. Concours Chair: Dick Russ
$9500. Ken McDade 618.616.7116
8 The Jaguar’s Growl March 2016
The Growl received this gracious invitation from Lafayette High School: From 16-18 October 2015, America’s British Reliability Run raised $23,807 for children’s “Dear Jaguar Association Of Greater St. Louis, charities, having traversed “some 550 miles of scenic byways” from Quakertown, PA, “The Lafayette High School Renaissance Student Steering Committee will host our second annu- through the NY Finger Lakes and Harriman al car show on May 7, 2016. Proceeds from this show will benefit our program, which rewards State Forest, arriving “for lunch” (unscathed, it students for their academic successes. As part of our car show, we wanted to reach out to car seems), in Milford, NJ. The website proudly clubs like yours from the St. Louis area to see if any of your members would be interested in indicates that “the 2015 ABRR benefitted the displaying their automobiles in the show. Each car would cost 15 dollars to enter, and it not only St. Christopher’s Foundation in support of the would help us in our goal of raising money for our programs, but it would also provide your mem- C.O.R.E Palliative Care Team at St. Chris- bers with a fun-filled day to bond with other auto enthusiasts throughout the St. Louis area. […] topher’s Hospital for Children.” “On behalf of Lafayette High School and Renaissance, we hope to hear from you soon. Thanks, in advance, for your consideration.
“Sincerely, Hamza Iqbal Jack Mazza”
Email:
Photo: Hemmings
It sounds like my kind of driving event: ABRR emphasizes that it is neither a race nor a standard rally -- “public roads,” “posted speeds,” “no checkpoints,” and no “deliberately vague and instructions,” and so “teams travel in groups, taking care to keep the cars together, making group stops as nec- essary.” A 2004 X-type, a 1967 E-type FHC, and a 1968 E-type OTS participated in the run, among other British marques.
Suggested by AllanEllis British artist Ian Cook uses interesting paintbrushes, including "radio-controlled cars, car tyres, and toy car wheels."
From the website: "Essentially[,] the idea for the process started for a number of reasons[:] Ian is an avid car enthusiast, a trained artist, and [...] he was bought a radio controlled car for a Christmas pre- sent and was told 'not to take it down your studio, and not to get paint on it.'"
Contact
The Jaguar’s Growl March 2016 9 by Matthew Johnson
s I mentioned briefly in the Growl (20.9, pg. 9), my seven-year old nephew, A Aaron, attended that September’s Cars & Coffee with me. He was dazzled and excited – so was I. Our emotions were enhanced by the presence of two E- types in Jaguar Row that day and heightened by the appearance of a lovely old VW Beetle (about which Aaron commented favorably). I have to say, though, that the highlight of the show for me is when Aaron “warmed up” and started talking to some of the automobile owners. In one instance, Aaron casually sauntered up to a proud Boss 302 Mustang owner, asking if the car was a Camaro. Oops! That’s like asking a (real) Cobra owner, “Is it real?” I would have cracked up there on the spot had I not been concerned for Aaron’s safety. But I need not have worried. Aaron was soon schooled – politely, thoroughly, and enthusiastically by the kindly Mustang owner. (Thanks, friend Mustang-owner. Spot on. You were the epitome of patience and kindheartedness. And you fueled a young enthusiast’s automo- tive interest.)
I hope you enjoyed that little anecdote. Now you might want to skip to page 12. Or go back to the bit about the next JAGSL event or jump for- ward to Allan’s editorial, but consider not lingering here, because it’s about to get nasty. Fair warning. … … … … Still reading? Well, okay, but it’s on you, now.
ou know, the new Camaro and the Boss It’s something that Gary Sudin said to Allan us assume we’re still talking about cars, but Y 302 Mustang do look pretty similar. Sorry Ellis and me as we were cruising in Allan’s 420 even so, then “you” aren’t much of a driver, if I offend (but not that sorry). For that matter, on the way to John Testrake’s for the judging eh?). The Nissan Altima ad asks, “Why blend the new Corvettes seem just a little too much session last year. We were talking about the in with the crowd?” These are advertisements, I like Ferrari 458s, don’t they? (On the drive potential waning of the classic car hobby (see understand, but you’ve gotta be $&*%# kid- home, until we were right up on it, we couldn’t Growl 20.5, pg. 11 and 21.2, pg.10-11), and ding me. I’d contend that no ad is “just an ad,” tell if that row of LEDs at- how it’s not just electric cars but rather a request to adopt a particular cul- tached to a flashy red body or petrol drying up that tural value, or the reflection of an already- belonged to a ‘Vette or a threatens it: Gary posed that established one. 458. Turns out, it was a it’s because modern cars 458, but by then I had lost just aren’t that interesting. Now, there’s nothing wrong with safe and relia- interest. I’ll also admit that Consider: walk a large park- ble, and I sure like driving incognito in my Hon- on my way to C&C, I thought ing lot, and you’ll see a sea da Accord in-between jaunts in the unmistaka- there was an F-type ap- of gray and black and white ble VW Bus and the striking E-type – the Honda proaching from behind, and silver – maybe a muted is refreshing, even. People like safe and relia- passing quickly, but it end- Ford Camry Coupe dark red or blue, all run-of- ble, so if you’re making safe and reliable, just ed up being an Aston Mar- the-mill sedans and SUVs say so. If you want a safe and reliable car, get tin.) Alright, I’m going to go and “crossovers” (those one. Dime a dozen. And that’s fine. But if you for it: if we’re being brutally vehicles with permanent want driving excitement, then I’m sorry, but honest (because in this day identity crises that I just do unless you’re irretrievably gullible or dull or and age, it seems to be the not understand), a monotony both, it’s not an Altima or Accord or Camry that only kind of honesty left), at broken up only by the occa- you should be considering. just a slight distance, you sional bright red Honda Fit might be hard-pressed to (ooh-ever-so-exciting-I-can’t- Q: But Matthew, you’re talking about distinguish between a con- take-it-Honda-Fit) or pretend- everyday cars – surely the high-end, temporary Jaguar sedan Chevrolet Camry Coupe ing-to-be-noticeable-and- exotic sportscars still excite, right? and its Buick contemporar- failing-utterly basically every- ies. There. What’s said is said. They look like thing else new(ish). I mean, Nissan claims of A: Meh. Hyundais, too, among others. [Angry? Before the Altima that “you’ll feel like royalty when you lashing out, take a moment and reread those drive” (yeah, if I happen to also be related to Consider the ‘60s, when car enthusiasts were Ian Callum remarks that Bob Herold quoted in Her Majesty the Queen) and that “people stare introduced to the Aston Martin DB5, the Ferrari “Just Say’n’” last September (Growl 20.9, pg. at you stepping out of your Nissan Alti- 275, and the Jaguar E-type. Consider the ‘80s, 3).] I don’t think that these similarities are ma” (sure, if you’ve suddenly caught fire), and when posters of the Porsche 959, Ferrari necessarily coincidences. the Altima is the “ride of your life” (hmmm … let Testarossa, and the Lamborghini Countach
Ferrari Camry Supersport Chevrolet Camry Supersport Jaguar Camry Sport Aston Martin Camry Sport
10 The Jaguar’s Growl April 2016 plastered the walls of adolescents’ rooms sided, or over-bodied on small wheels. Restaurant (see Growl 20.2, pgs. 6-7), Jim (sure, I’ll take the ‘60s cars, too, but there’s They’re aggressive-looking without the mali- Hendrix passing me (I wanted to say “blowing no denying how new and different these ‘80s cious-intent-effect that has somehow annoy- the doors off of me, as if to say what the heck cars were). Head-turners, then as now, one ingly become desirable in car design. Fine. do you think these roads are FOR?!?!” but I and all. What’s on the cur- But there was no mistak- decided to protect the innocent) in his potent rent roster? The McLaren ing a ’68-’09 XJ with any- XJL, the distinctive Jaguar growl reverberating 570S? The Lexus LFA? thing else on the road. off of the cement barrier of an overpass, cre- Even the Lamborghini Hura- The Series 1/2/3 (all ating an uproar, a tumult of exhilarating cán – you know, L-a-m-b-o-r- those saloons and that sound, a symphony of engine noise so intoxi- g-h-i-n-i, which is supposed splendid XJ6 coupe) cating, that a brew at Schneithorst’s would to be nothing short of outra- through the X350/358 have been overindulgent, if not downright geous insanity sculpted in sedans maintained that irresponsible. Having been drowned out mer- metal and carbon fiber – pleasing low-front-to- cilessly, the hum of my four-cylinder struggled looks pretty much like the raised-middle-to-low-rear once again to my ear, sounding like an in- first two. Even the superex- Buick Camry Sedan line. They were distinc- fant’s cough, pitiable, almost apologetic. I otics are conforming to the tively Jaguars. And I liked knew what prowled beneath the XJL’s bonnet, same shapes, and no de- the days of no mistaking and in retrospect, perhaps I should have gree of dousing them in a Jaguar for anything warned my little VTEC; nevertheless, that electric orange or radioac- else – you? VTEC delivered me safely, reliably, and with tive green will change that. great economy to the restaurant, just as it They’re pretty, sure, but But – wait … wait … calm has to all of my numerous destinations in the they’re not unique. Perhaps yourself … breathe … – last 235,000 miles, just as it will for the next physics is to blame. Gone give me a moment before 70,000 miles or more. are the days of “if it looks you protest. As I was fast, it must be fast” and “if Jaguar Camry Sedan saying, BUT. But that’s So I get it. I get that the Boss 302 is not just it looks good, it must be not the end of the story, a Mustang, even if it requires “Boss 302” to right.” Maybe it’s our own is it? In fact, to get there, be written all over it to communicate readily ingenuity – of science and I need to go back to the the difference. And I totally get that a Jaguar tech and materials, in un- beginning, when Aaron is not a Buick. But here’s the thing: inside, derstanding aerodynamics asked about that Camaro nowadays, is where cars are most different, – that has enabled us to … er … Mustang, I mean. and that’s really important; however, it’s less determine what the perfor- Looks aren’t everything. accessible to an outsider, someone who is mance shape is. And that’s We even tell our children not yet interested in cars, someone who is why superexotics generally that during their Junior not likely to be at a car show looking under look alike. Maybe. But I Hyundai Camry Sedan High awkward years. In hoods and bonnets. That person is going to think that generous. fact, we even lie to them become passionate in cars because of what and say, “It’s what’s on the they look like on the out- Or maybe it’s because we’re just not exercis- inside that counts.” (I sup- side. And without diversi- ing our creativity, likely a symptom of being pose that’s true, although I ty and difference in de- automatons programmed by The Market think we’d do well to explain sign, if car manufacturers (blessed be Its name), which governs a Sys- to children how the outside insist on marketing differ- tem in which it’s risky to be too far outside of matters a great deal, too, ence instead of actually standard-normal-mundane, as people might and how it can shape the being different – just might – not buy something. Still not inside, but I digress.) The (***cough-cough-F-PACE convinced? Although you won’t see them on inside does count. That -cough***), well, I’m not the streets in the U.S., generally, even the Boss 302 Mustang owner at all sure we can reason- new Citroën, which is not supposed to make certainly and justifiably Lamborghini Camry Supersport ably rely on the next gen- any conceivable, logical sense whatsoever emphasized what was lurk- eration to keep the hobby seems pretty accessible to me nowadays. ing beneath that hood, what fueled; they’ll be perfectly Google-image search “2016 Citroen”; then, in made this Mustang differ- content to sit peacefully another tab, Google-image search “2016 ent from other Mustangs in their Google driverless X” (where X = Honda, Toyota, Kia, Ford, Chev- that more or less look alike. “cars.” The hobby inspir- rolet, Nissan, or Volkswagen). Then compare. In the driver’s seat, hurtling ing them like it did us will You’re likely to lose track of what browser tab down the highway there’d just be wishful thinking. you’re on. Tragic. I mean, tragic. You might be no mistaking a Jaguar XJ Because that generation have heard complaints over the years that for a Buick LaCrosse, or so I is in danger of never every new Porsche 911 looks like all the oth- would imagine, having driv- Lexus Camry Supersport knowing that exhilaration, er previously new Porsche 911s. I guess. en neither. In my own expe- that enchantment, that But at least they don’t look like anything else. rience, though, I can tell you allure – whether putter- And that’s something. And (unfortunately) it’s that at least there’s no mis- ing along with a smile in a lot more than it used to be. taking them when they tear that 2CV, cruising on a past me on the road. cloud in that Silver Jaguar looks like Buick looks like Jaguar. Wraith, or throwing their Infuriating. Dedicating oneself to a bit more I distinctly remember last heads back in that than a glance will, I admit, reveal that the February – over a year ago, XK120. They’ll never new Jaguar XJ, XF, and XE are more sleek now – as I drove my safe know the inspiration of than their rivals, generally (and Buicks in and unequivocally reliable McLaren Camry Supersport being behind the wheel of particular). They’re more elegant. They have Honda Accord from the something special. better proportions – they aren’t bulky or slab- Overstreet House of Cars to Schneithorst's : )
The Jaguar’s Growl April 2016 11 n 2 March 2016, Allan Ellis received (and subsequently forwarded to me) an email O from Bob Matejek, Special Awards Chair and JCNA Secretary which informed us that JAGSL had won three national awards: Allan Ellis earned the “Karen C. Miller Top Newsletter Award,” I received – with my co-author, Carla Johnson – a “Newsletter Award – Travel” for our “Jaguars Abroad” article (September 2015 Growl 20.8), and Plaza Jaguar St. Louis was awarded Dealer of the Year. Quite a year, apparently. Allan will be presented with a plaque at the 2016 AGM in Phoenix, AZ. Congratula- tions to Jim Allmeroth at Plaza! And I’m delighted to say, con- gratulations and thanks, Mom! Allan and I would like to thank John Testrake, Jim & Lisa Hendrix, Mark Morgan, and Tom Loew for their warm congratulations and kind words. -- MATTHEW JOHNSON
The Jaguar’s Growl and Allan Ellis: 2015 Karen C. Miller Top Newsletter Award
From the JCNA website: Karen Christine Miller (1945-2003) was an active contributor to the growth of JCNA for more than 30 years. She chaired the original Concours Committee, co-wrote the JCNA Rule Book, served on the Business Committee, maintained the JCNA roster and was a Regional Director. She conceived and developed the Andrew Whyte and Fred Horner Awards and originated the JCNA AGM Technical Seminars and Annual Newsletter Awards. Profession- ally, Karen was Associate Editor of Jaguar Journal from 1985 and the Jaguar Cars North American Archivist from 1990 to 2003. Carla Johnson and Matthew Johnson: 2015 Newsletter Awards — Travel The award is presented annually to the JCNA affiliate newsletter editor who best represents Karen Miller’s talents and ideals as a From the JCNA website: The Newslet- writer, editor, historian and ultimate Jaguar club volunteer. The ter Awards recognize talented writers recipient will qualify by producing, in one year at least four newslet- and photographers who contribute to ters to the highest standards of editorial content and production. JCNA affiliate club newsletters. Judg- Why is this award important? Because a good newsletter is the ing is based on quality of writing, lifeline for every local club. It contains news, the calendar of area how well the subject matter is pre- events, technical advice, and features of local interest. The editor sented, and value to the reader in who puts out a timely, well-produced publication packed with infor- terms of education, performing a mation is directly contributing to keeping the organization healthy task, and simple reading enjoyment. and active. The “Travel” award is for accounts of solo or club group road trips and other travel related to Jaguars.
Plaza Jaguar St. Louis The JCNA Dealer of the Year Award
The JCNA Dealer of the Year Award was first presented at the Annual Meeting in 2000. The award recognizes a dealer for its close relationship with a JCNA club and for its support of and participation in local club events. The first honoree was Moore Jaguar of St. Louis. Recognizing a Jaguar dealer each year is also a tribute to the local club or clubs which work with the dealer. It usually falls to the club members to approach the dealer management, describe the publicity and business benefits of working with a Jaguar club, and convince them to start supporting the club. Photo: Google Street View
12 The Jaguar’s Growl April 2016 EDITOR’S PAGE: Allan Ellis ’m headed to the AGM in Phoenix. I confess that I wasn’t mote the original founding purposes of the group. My experi- I sure what “AGM” stood for, never mind “IJF.” Thinking that ence leads me to believe that you need both people to pour the “AG” might have something to do with agriculture and may- wine on the wound (as an antiseptic) and people who follow up be the “M” standing for manure, I soon discovered that I was not by pouring oil on the wound (as a balm). Blessed is that group entirely wrong. After consulting other, well-seasoned members that maintains a healthy balance. of the club, many of whom have attended AGMs in the past, I There are things about the JCNA that need to change. I have a more realistic understanding of what being a club dele- think the Jaguar Journal (for the kind of money they spend on it) gate entails. could be better, both content-wise and graphically. I have been Good lawyers won’t ask a question in court unless told by someone (who shall remain nameless) that “the directors they’re sure what the answer will be. Running an organization and staff still control 54% of the roll call votes.” That needs to requires a similar dose of predictability. This insures the relative change. And I certainly think the sport of vintage car collecting sanity of the officers who have pledged to keep things tidy. is facing some formidable challenges. Baby boomers had a sin- Change can be a bear. gular fascination with the automobile that will not likely be re- People who come along and shake things up in a group peated. What is the collector car of the future? And will anyone are called change agents. Most people are averse to change: it (except the superrich) be involved? Will people still drive their requires new practices and the acquisition of hitherto unknown “investments” or are these cars destined to occupy museums skill sets. Change agents tend to be driven personalities, more only? task-oriented than people-oriented, typically not understanding So I’m headed to the AGM. And I will try to leave my why everyone else can’t see what so desperately needs to be cynicism about groups and change at home. I look forward to done. engaging other delegates who may have similar concerns. My Any group can plateau and the arrival of a change agent mother told me when I was in my awkward teens that if I was can be most welcome. The longer you maintain membership in going to have friends, I would have to show myself friendly. It’s a group (which is good because it promotes stability) the less good advice. likely you are to see the need for change. The last seven words I don’t know what “Hogs N’ Horses” is (something that of a dying group are often, “We never did it that way before.” happens on Friday night) but Yee-haw! I’ll have a full report for The ideal, I guess, is to have stability that allows and y’all in the May Growl. Now if I could just figure out what “IJF” provides for a discussion about what might be changed to pro- stands for.
The Jaguar’s Growl March 2016 13
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The Jaguar’s Growl March 2016 15 APPLICATION FOR JAGSL/JCNA MEMBERSHIP
Membership fees: $63 per year for an individual membership $68 per year for a membership including partner (carries an additional vote) $32 for partial membership when applying after June 1st $23 for young enthusiast membership, up to age 25 ($11 after June 1st)
Member benefits: We look forward to your support and participation.
Attend social events Name: ______ Attend the annual "dinner gala" Celebrate JAGSL at its birthday party Spouse: ______
Join us for monthly events (shows, drives, meals, other get- Address: ______togethers)
Enter your Jaguar in local, regional and national Concours City: ______State: ______Zip: ______d’Elegance competitions (or don't enter a car ... just attend the shows!) Phone #s Home: ______Mobile: ______ Attend other local car shows and automotive events Embark on road rallies Email: ______ Learn from experts in tech sessions Jaguars owned (optional): ______ Earn points by attending activities and hosting events -- good
for prizes each year ______ Receive the monthly club newsletter, The Jaguar's Growl (print & digital) ______ Become a member of the Jaguar Clubs of North America (JCNA) Referred by (optional): ______ Receive a subscription to JCNA's bi-monthly magazine, Jaguar Journal Note: Single membership carries 1 vote (add $5 for additional vote). Receive significant discounts on new Jaguars (no kidding!) And, best of all, experience camaraderie with great, fun- Make checks payable to JAGSL and send to: loving, automotive enthusiasts! Diana Schlueter JAGSL Membership Chair Consider ... you do not need to own a Jaguar to join JAGSL: the 840 Rambling Pine Drive, St. Charles, MO 63303 club welcomes all Jaguar enthusiasts! 636.477.1763
JAGSL NAME TAG ORDER FORM If you would like to purchase a JAGSL name tag, please complete this order form and mail it with a check, made payable to Gary Schlueter, for $10.00 for each tag, to the same address as the membership application:
Gary Schlueter, 840 Rambling Pine Drive, St. Charles, MO 63303 (You can contact Gary at 314.606.0025) First tag. (Please print your name clearly, as this is what will First tag clasp: appear on your name tag). Pin:
Magnet:
Second tag. (Please print your name clearly, as this is what will Second tag clasp: appear on your name tag). Pin: Total enclosed ($10 x # of tags = $) Magnet:
Third tag. (Please print your name clearly, as this is what will Third tag clasp: $ ______appear on your name tag). Pin:
Magnet: